Back in September 2018, Mercedes-Benz whipped the covers off its new GLE. And now, ahead of the launch of this new premium SUV in South Africa in the second quarter of 2019, we can bring you local pricing.

At launch, the local range will comprise three derivatives: the GLE300d, GLE450 and GLE400d, each standard with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The GLE300d, with a 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine worth 180 kW and 500 N.m, will be priced from R1 210 500, before CO2 emissions tax. Mercedes-Benz claims this model will hit 100 km/h from standstill in 7,2 seconds.

Meanwhile, the petrol-powered GLE450 will start at R1 329 400, again before CO2 tax. This model’s turbocharged 3,0-litre inline six-cylinder engine provides 270 kW and 500 N.m, along with a boost of up to 16 kW and 250 N.m courtesy of the new 48-volt on-board power supply. That’s enough, says the Stuttgart-based firm, for a 5,7-second sprint to three figures.

Finally, the GLE400d will be priced from R1 351 200 (sans emissions tax). It employs a 3,0-litre inline six-cylinder turbodiesel churning out 243 kW and 700 N.m, resulting in a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 5,8 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz says the new GLE – which features a Cd figure “from 0,29” – has an extra 80 mm between its axles compared with its predecessor (for a wheelbase of 2 995 mm). The result, says the automaker, is increased legroom in the second row.

A second row with six fully electric adjustments will be offered as an option. Luggage capacity measures up to a claimed 825 litres behind the rear seats, and up to 2 055 litres when the second seat row is folded down. There will also be the option of a folding third row, which provides two extra perches.

Of course, the SUV will also feature the new MBUX infotainment system, here boasting “improvements” (as many as 40, says Benz) over the arrangement that debuted in the A-Class hatchback. In the GLE, two 12,3-inch screens will ship as standard, arranged next to each other for a widescreen look. A head-up display measuring 720 x 240 pixels will also be offered.

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.